Domestic Violence

As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to a close, The International Center for the Attainment of Love and Joy would like to focus on ways that our own community can build awareness, identify abusive behaviors, and take action to prevent friends and family from being harmed by domestic violence.

The Different Faces of Domestic Violence

While Jennifer Lopez does an amazing job playing a victim of domestic violence in the movie, “Enough,” it barely scratches the surface on the vastness of domestic violence. Domestic violence presents itself in so many different forms. Physical, sexual, emotional, financial, spiritual, and stalking are all the different ways that the abuser can harm a victim. Commonly, the aim in domestic violence is to maintain a sense of power and control. Victims can have all different types of short and long-term effects after abuse. Flashbacks, panic attacks, anxiety, trouble sleeping, physical ailments, depression, and even suicide are all just samples of effects that domestic violence victims deal with on a day to day basis. Children that grow up in a home where domestic violence takes place, even if they weren’t being abused, can have detrimental effects like regressive behavior, anxiety, self-destructing habits, and so much more. While physical abuse is the most obvious form of abuse, all of the different faces within domestic violence are hurtful and can cause serious damage.

Seeking Help

There are so many reasons that people in an abusive relationship stay with their partner. At The International Center for the Attainment of Love and Joy, we understand that the moment you decide to leave your abusive partner will be the most dangerous point of your relationship. Whether you decide to stay or leave, precautions must be taken to minimize risk and keep you safe. When the timing is right, seeking counsel at The International Center for the Attainment of Love and Joy can provide you options. Our office can help you explore choices, create a safety plan, and help survivors of domestic violence feel a sense of connection and support.

At The International Center for the Attainment of Love and Joy, we recognize that just because Domestic Violence Awareness Month is ending, the awareness of this topic should not go away. If you are a victim of domestic violence or know someone who is, seek help right away. Call The International Center for the Attainment of Love and Joy today at (763) 572-2326.